Lance Hohaia says New Zealand must take Tonga seriously when the teams meet in this week's Rugby League World Cup semi-final.
Tonga's thrilling contest with Samoa last weekend reinforced the former Kiwi's view that the side is playing with confidence and has quality and experience, including NRL players.
Hohaia said Tonga's forwards could match New Zealand's, while Isaiya Katoa, Jojo Fifita, Robert Toia, Haumole Olakau'atu and Addin Fonua-Blake offered attacking threats.
"They have a forward pack to match the."
He sees greater Test experience and depth across positions as potential advantages for New Zealand, but said the Kiwis still need to perform well.
"So that'll be potentially the difference maker there with Kiwis having a bit more experience at Test level."
Phoenix Crossland could return from a four-match suspension, while Kalyn Ponga is a possible comeback option after breaking his arm in the opening game against Australia and having surgery on October 16.
Hohaia said Crossland should start at hooker and Ponga at fullback if selected.
He also praised halfback Jahrome Hughes' performance last week and said New Zealand could "get over the line, just" if Hughes repeats it and the potential returnees play.